Spring has sprung and it’s time to throw open the windows and breathe in fresh air.
And for some, it’s time to reset and clean house — from top to bottom.
According to new consumer data released by the American Cleaning Institute, spring cleaning is a top priority for more Americans than ever.
The survey found that 80% of Americans plan to spring clean this year, which is a more than a 10% increase from just three years ago.
The past few weeks has been crunch time for Audrey Roman, of Audrey’s Cleaning Service based in Suttons Bay. Roman has been cleaning for 27 years, beginning in housekeeping at The Whaleback in and Falling Waters Lodge right after high school.
Armed with her supplies and equipment, Roman opens about 15 cottages/ seasonal homes each spring.
“We try to get them all done before Memorial Day weekend,” she said. “Some we can do early (because they are winterized), but with others we have to wait until things warm up.”
Roman’s familiar with the homes as she helps close cottages for the winter.
Even so, you’d be surprised what can happen in a closed structure that hasn’t seen foot traffic for several months.
She and her two associates find all sorts of “treasures” while working from ceiling to floor.
“For homes that weren’t closed properly, we find mouse droppings. But I’ve seen squirrels, acorns, dead critters under pillow and live bats,” Roman said.
The crew begins with washing walls, removing cobwebs and cleaning ceiling fans.
They also wash windows — in and out — screens, blinds and carpets. They also clean out vents and vacuum before mopping.
The crew removes curtains; takes them to Traverse City to have them cleaned; and hang the cleaned fabric.
Roman previously charged based on square-footage. Now, she charges a per hour amount.
“Between the three of us, our biggest house takes 52 hours,” she said.
According to the American Cleaning Institute, those who choose to do it themselves, spring cleaning is a marathon rather than a sprint.
Forty-five percent say it takes three or more days to spring clean (23% 3 to 4 days, and 22%five days or more). Audrey’s Cleaning Service also has 30 year-round clients. “We lost a lot during COVID. But now we’re getting back on our feet,” Roman said.
Clients meet with her to discuss what they would like done.
Bathrooms or kitchen only? Storage room? Entry way?
Dusting, vacuuming and mopping? Whatever, the client needs. This information is used to determine the frequency of the cleaning.
“Some we do weekly. Some are every other week and others are once a month depending on what they’d prefer,” Roman said.
This flexibility allows her clients to select service that is within their budget.
“Everyone should be able to get what they need,” Roman said.
She can be reached at 231-883-2244.
